The phrase "kick over" is commonly used to describe an action in which an object is knocked over by a kick. The phonetic transcription of this phrase is /kɪk ˈoʊvər/, where the first syllable "kɪk" rhymes with "pick" and the second syllable "oʊvər" sounds like "oh-ver". The spelling of "kick over" is straightforward, with the word "kick" being spelled normally and the word "over" spelled as it sounds. This phrase is often used in sports, such as soccer or football, to describe a player accidentally knocking over the ball.
Kick over is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of causing a machine, engine, or any mechanical device to start or function. It involves applying force or pressure, usually with the foot or leg, to the specific area or component that triggers the activation of the device. The term "kick" implies the use of a sudden, forceful movement, suggesting that the action might require some physical effort.
In the context of engines, kick over commonly refers to the action of starting a motorcycle or other similar vehicles with a kick-start mechanism. In such cases, the user exerts force on a pedal or lever, often located near the footrest area, to rotate the engine's crankshaft and ignite the fuel mixture, enabling the engine to run. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe starting or initiating any kind of process or activity quickly and energetically.
Furthermore, kick over can also be used to describe the accidental or deliberate act of knocking over an object, usually with the foot, resulting in it falling or tumbling to the ground. This definition applies to situations where the object is not stable or well-balanced, making it susceptible to being easily tipped or toppled. Whether metaphorically or literally, the term kick over denotes an action that involves applying force or pressure to start or disrupt something.
The etymology of the word "kick over" can be understood by analyzing the etymology of its two individual components:
1. Kick: The word "kick" has origins in the Old Norse word "kikna" or "kikja", which means "to bend backward, sink at the knees". It was then borrowed into English during the late 14th century.
2. Over: The word "over" has a long history in English and can be traced back to the Old English word "ufor", which means "upward, above, over". It has remained relatively unchanged throughout the centuries.
When these two words are combined, "kick over" comes to mean an action or movement of bending backward and going upwards, usually as a result of kicking something.